THE history of Coventry will be retold during a spectacular Godiva parade organised by the Belgrade Theatre as part of the city's Christmas lights switch-on on Sunday.

More than 200 children from six schools will join performers wearing costumes portraying the car-making, watch-making and ribbon-weaving past of Coventry to march through the city centre from 3.45pm passing from Millennium Place into Broadgate.

Jane Hytch, of the Belgrade, said: "We always felt the Spirit of Coventry carnival was a stunning spectacle. It proved a massive hit at the International Children's Games opening and at this year's Godiva Festival.

"It was also seen by 200,000 at the Thames Festival and another 15,000 at the Bridgewater Carnival.

"Since then the carnival has won three national trophies - best newcomer, best performance on the road and best overall entry in the 36th Torchlight procession in Kendal."

In 2006, the carnival will be even bigger after a sponsorship deal worth tens of thousands of pounds with Oakmoor Deeley, the company behind the £130 million Belgrade Plaza development.

Oakmoor director Kieran Leahy said: "It is essential to ensure that the arts and cultural scene thrives in the city and we believe that involving the local community is the best way to achieve this. There is a rich artistic tradition in Coventry and it is in everyone's interests to see it thrive and grow and hopefully, our involvement will help that happen."